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Union Square to Portland Street Distribution Project

Why Are We Doing This Project?

This work supports an electrical distribution upgrade, connecting the Prospect Street Substation in Somerville to the existing distribution network in Cambridge. The project is one of several designed to improve the reliability of the electric system serving Somerville, Cambridge and the surrounding area. 

This work will not disrupt your electrical service.

Where Is This Work Being Done?

This project includes the installation of 20 new underground vaults (manholes), and new in-street duct banks (a group of tubes to house electric lines) spanning an approximately one-mile route along Prospect Street in Somerville and Cambridge, and Harvard and Portland Streets in Cambridge.

* Click to Enlarge

When Is The Work Being Done?

Generally, crews will be working at one location along the project route for 2 to 4 weeks before continuing. However, the duration of work is dependent on the number of existing utilities that crews encounter, and unforeseen events.

  • Start of construction: August 2022
  • Partial completion: Third quarter 2023 (Harvard Street and Portland Street in Cambridge)
  • Engineering: First/second quarter 2024 (remaining scope)
  • Projected completion date of street work: End 2024

*subject to change, pending necessary approvals

About This Project:

  • Route Length: Approximately one mile
  • Towns: Somerville and Cambridge
  • Start of Construction: August 2022

Traffic Management

We coordinate closely with municipal officials on effective traffic management throughout the project. At times, parking restrictions may be necessary and will be clearly posted in advance.  Construction crews will occupy a portion of the roadway, typically leaving the remainder of the road passable to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

When detours are necessary signage will be clearly posted for motorists. Please monitor this web page for updates on traffic management.

Construction Updates

We're committed to keeping neighbors, businesses and community members informed on project activities during construction.

Project work is not expected to interrupt electric service to homes or businesses and all Eversource contractors carry proper identification.

Somerville

There are no planned construction activities in Somerville this week.

Cambridge

Work on Harvard Street and Portland Street has been completed.  There are no planned construction activities in Cambridge this week as part of this project. 

Any additional restoration work on Harvard Street is being closely coordinated with the City of Cambridge’s Port Infrastructure Project – a water main replacement also located on Harvard Street.

Have Questions?

Keeping the lines of communication open is an important part of our work in your community.

For more information about this project, please call the project information hotline at 1-833-836-0302 or email ProjectInfoMA@eversource.com.